Nintendo has announced plans to produce more films based on its video game IPs, aiming for a steady release schedule following the success of recent adaptations. The company highlighted upcoming projects like The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and The Legend of Zelda, with additional unannounced films in development. This commitment was revealed during a presentation of second-quarter financial results.
Announcement Background
Nintendo's push into film adaptations builds on the massive success of the 2023 release, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which emphasized the company's goal "to create smiles through entertainment." President Shuntaro Furukawa stated in the financial presentation that Nintendo is "building a framework for a consistent release cadence" for movies, prioritizing the growth of in-house intellectual properties over box office metrics alone.
Upcoming Projects
The next film, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, is slated for release with a teaser already available. Shigeru Miyamoto, Nintendo's longtime producer, has co-produced it alongside Illumination's Chris Meledandri, ensuring close involvement in the creative process. Following that, The Legend of Zelda movie adaptation is scheduled for 2027.
Nintendo has teased two additional unannounced film projects without specific dates, indicated by question marks in their presentation, signaling more to come. This long-term strategy includes subsidiaries like Nintendo Pictures, established in 2022 for animation, and the newly launched Nintendo Stars, focused on licensing and new character uses.
Company Involvement
Furukawa emphasized Nintendo's hands-on approach, contrasting it with past efforts like the 1989 The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!. The films aim to bring families together through entertainment rooted in Nintendo's iconic characters.